REGIONAL WEED STRATEGY MURRAY CATCHMENT - Ernwag ...

REGIONAL WEED STRATEGY 

MURRAY CATCHMENT 

manage for what we want ... 

Minimise the economic, environmental and social impacts of existing and new and emerging weeds 

in the Murray Catchment through coordination, cooperation and commitment from weed managers and the community. 

FOR THE USE OF ALL PRIVATE AND PUBLIC LAND MANAGERS

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This Strategy was prepared after consultation with a wide range of stakeholders across the Murray Catchment. It provides 

strategic direction for the management of weeds in the catchment and is recognised within the Murray Catchment Action Plan, 

(2006) 1 addressing a specific action in that document. It aims to provide a coordinated weed management regime for the entire 

catchment. The development of this Strategy was initiated by local government and supported by ERNWAG & WRNWAG, NSW 

DPI and Murray CMA. 

Authors: 

Paula Bosse 

Riverina Noxious Weeds Project Officer 

Greater Hume Shire 

Birgitte Verbeek 

Team Leader Weeds Extension 

NSW DPI, Tamworth Agricultural Institute 

First published in February 2008 

Printed by Thomsons Graphipress 

ISBN 978 0 7347 5944 3 

Contacts for weed management in the Murray Catchment: 

Councils 

Catchment Management Authority Offices 

Albury City Council 02 6023 8111 Albury 02 6051 2200 

Balranald Shire Council 03 5020 1300 Barham 03 5453 1320 

Berrigan Shire Council * 03 5885 2100 Berrigan 03 5888 5500 

Central Murray County Council 03 5883 1764 Corowa 02 6033 0947 

Corowa Shire Council 02 6033 8960 Deniliquin 03 5880 1400 

Conargo Shire * 03 5881 2044 Holbrook 02 6036 3181 

Deniliquin Shire Council * Tumbarumba 02 6948 9124 

Greater Hume Shire Council 02 6036 0100 

Jerilderie Shire Council 03 5886 1200 NSW DPI Weed Control Coordinator 

Lockhart Shire Council 02 6920 5305 Wagga Wagga 02 6938 1911 

Murray Shire Council * 03 5884 3302 

Narrandera Shire Council 02 6959 5560 Riverina Noxious Weeds Project Officer 

Tumbarumba Shire Council 02 6948 9100 Jindera 02 6026 3800 

Urana Shire Council 02 6930 9100 

Wakool Shire Council 03 5887 5007 

* Central Murray County Council 

For further information on weeds, go to: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture 

Cover photographs: Wetland and Brolgas, Grassy Box Woodland and Boree Woodland (Endangered Ecological Communities), Blue devil (an important 

native herb) found throughout the catchment. All pictures on the back cover are of existing weeds within the Murray Catchment. Boneseed (yellow flower) is 

a Weed of National Significance. 

1 

Refer to Murray Catchment Action Plan, (2006): www.murray.cma.nsw.gov.au

REGIONAL WEED STRATEGY - MURRAY CATCHMENT 3 

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Foreword 

The Murray Catchment Management Authority (CMA) strongly supports the development of the 

Murray Catchment Regional Weed Strategy as an important step toward the protection of the 

catchments biodiversity and valuable productive land from the spread of ‘weeds’. The Strategy 

sets priorities to manage weeds that detrimentally affect significant and valued natural ecosystems 

consistent with the targets within the Murray Catchment Action Plan. 

I would like to thank members of the community who attended consultative sessions and contributed 

their local knowledge to enhance the development of the Strategy. In addition I wish to thank the 

Steering Committee for their dedication which has resulted in the attainment of a Strategy that sets 

a high standard. 

The Strategy will provide the community with guidance on where to best invest funds in weed 

management in the NSW Murray Catchment. In partnership with the community, the strategy 

outlines a responsible approach to controlling and managing weeds to achieve a real economic 

and environmental benefit. 

I encourage everyone to become involved with the implementation of this Strategy that was developed 

in partnership with NSW Department of Primary Industries and the Eastern and Western Riverina 

Noxious Weeds Advisory Groups. This important regional Strategy provides both a practical and 

timely method of delivering a coordinated ‘fight against weeds’. 

Tim Sheed 

Acting Chair Murray CMA

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Figure 1: Murray Catchment: The region to which the Strategy applies. 

THE MURRAY CATCHMENT 

LGAs and Community Advisory Groups 

Balranald 

NEW SOUTH WALES 

Narrandera 

New South Wales 

KYALITE 

1 

TOOLEYBUC 

Wakool 

BARHAM 

MOULAMEIN 

WANGANELLA 

WAKOOL 

DENILIQUIN 

Murray 

MATHOURA 

MOAMA 

Conargo 

CONARGO 

Deniliquin 

4 

3 

BARMAH 

2 

FINLEY 

VICTORIA 

Jerilderie 

Berrigan 

JERILDERIE 

TOCUMWAL 

BERRIGAN 

Urana 

URANA 

5 

Corowa 

COROWA 

LOCKHART 

WALBUNDRIE 

Lockhart 

CULCAIRN 

ALBURY 

Albury 

6 

Greater Hume 

HOLBROOK 

TUMBARUMBA 

JINGELLIC 

7 

KHANCOBAN 

Tumbarumba 

Legend 

The Murray Catchment 

Local Government Area JERILDERIE Community Advisory Groups 

Major Rivers 

Main Roads 

Secondary Roads 

" Towns 

ALBURY 

BALRANALD 

BERRIGAN 

CONARGO 

COROWA 

DENILIQUIN 

GREATER HUME 

LOCKHART 

MURRAY 

NARRANDERA 

TUMBARUMBA 

URANA 

WAKOOL 

1 Western 

2 Billabong - East 

3 Murray LWMP Areas 

4 Bullatale/Tuppal 

5 Central 

6 South West Slopes 

7 Upper Murray 

50 25 0 50 

Kilometres 

February 2008 

Refer to MCMA website: www.murray.cma.nsw.gov.au for further details about the region.


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CONTENTS 

Foreword 

1 Introduction 7 

1.1 Purpose 7 

1.2 Strategy development 8 

1.3 Context 8 

1.4 Organisations responsible for implementation 9 

2 Strategy Components 11 

2.1 The vision 11 

2.2 Key aims 11 

2.3 Weed definitions 12 

2.3.1 Weed 12 

2.3.2 Noxious weed 12 

2.3.2.1 Weed control ‘order’ 12 

2.3.2.2 Weed control ‘classes’ 12 

2.3.3 Feral Native Plant Species 13 

2.3.4 Invasive Native Scrub (INS) 13 

2.3.5 Environmental weed 14 

2.3.6 Weeds on the National Environmental Alert List 14 

2.3.7 Weeds of National Significance 14 

2.4 Prioritising weeds 15 

2.4.1 Weed list categories 16 

2.4.2 Prioritised weed lists 18 

3 Implementing the Strategy 25 

Preventative Weed Management 25 

Management of Existing Weeds 26 

Awareness, Education and Training 28 

Coordination of Weed Management 29 

Legislation and Enforcement 30 

Monitoring and Evaluation 30 

4 Other relevant information 31 

4.1 Links to other strategies and plans 31 

4.2 Relevant legislation 32 

Appendices 1. Weeds identified during consultation 33 

2. Prioritisation process 34 

3. Class 1 and 2 noxious weeds of the Murray Catchment 39 

Figures 1. Murray Catchment 4 

Tables 2.1 Weeds of National Significance 14 

2.2 Priority weeds – Western LCAG area 18 

2.3 Priority weeds – Billabong East LCAG area 19 

2.4 Priority weeds – Murray LWMP LCAG area 20 

2.5 Priority weeds – Bullatale / Tuppal LCAG area 21 

2.6 Priority weeds – Central LCAG area 22 

2.7 Priority weeds – South West Slopes LCAG area 23 

2.8 Priority weeds – Upper Murray LCAG area 24 

4.1 Other relevant management strategies and plans 31 

4.2 Legislation impacting on weed management 32

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Abbreviations 

ARTC 

Australian Rail Track Corporation 

AQIS 

Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service 

CAP 

Catchment Action Plan 

CMA 

Catchment Management Authority 

CRC 

Cooperative Research Centre for Australian Weed Management 

DAGE Discovering Alternatives to Garden Escapes 

DECC Department of Environment and Climate Change 

DoL 

Department of Lands 

DWE 

Department of Water and Energy 

ERNWAG Eastern Riverina Noxious Weeds Advisory Group 

HCV 

High Conservation Value 

IO 

Implementation Officer 

INS 

Invasive Native Scrub 

LCA 

Local Control Authority 

LCAG 

Landholder Community Advisory Groups 

LEP 

Local Environment Plan 

LGA 

Local Government Area 

LMDC Lower Murray Darling Catchment 

LWMP Land and Water Management Plan 

MIL 

Murray Irrigation Ltd. 

MCMA Murray Catchment Management Authority 

NGIA 

Nursery and Garden Industry Association 

NRM 

Natural Resource Management 

NSW DPI New South Wales Department of Primary Industries 

NWA 1993 Noxious Weeds Act 1993 

PVP 

Property Vegetation Plan 

RLPBs Rural Lands Protection Boards 

RTA 

Roads and Traffic Authority 

RWACs Regional Weed Advisory Committees (ERNWAG/WRNWAG) 

RWS 

Regional Weed Strategy 

SOE 

State of the Environment Report 

WoNS Weeds of National Significance 

WRNWAG Western Riverina Noxious Weeds Advisory Group 

Acknowledgements 

The authors/workshop facilitators (Birgitte and Paula) gratefully acknowledge the input of the 

Steering committee: Jack Chubb, Dale Stringer (Murray CMA), Marion Taylor, David Mitchell and Liz 

McLaurin; the following people: John Rutherford, Kylie Durant, Andrew Moriarty, Natasha Lappin, 

Ian Singleton, Tracy Michael, Joshua Ellis and Stephen Battenally who assisted with organising the 

workshops; and all landholders, weed officers and agency staff that attended the workshops for 

their contributions and valuable guidance. 

Workshops were held in Conargo (6/7/06), Tumbarumba (11/7/06), Holbrook (12/7/06), Corowa 

(13/7/06), Albury (13/7/06), Moulamein (18/7/06), Barham (19/7/06) and Deniliquin (20/7/06). 

Photographs: Neil Hibberson and Glen Sanders


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1. Introduction 

1.1 Purpose 

The cost of weeds to Australian agriculture now exceeds $4 billion per year with almost all the plants 

involved originating overseas. Of more than 28,000 plant species introduced into Australia, over 

2,500 species have become naturalised. Of those species that have become invasive in recent 

decades, 65% originated from garden plantings. 1 

The need to develop a catchment-wide weed Strategy was initiated by the Eastern and Western 

Riverina Noxious Weeds Advisory Groups (E/WRNWAG). The Murray Catchment Regional Weed 

Strategy (the Strategy) provides a comprehensive direction for weed management in the Murray 

Catchment, giving clear directions for community and government (State and Local) investment in 

weed management. It addresses all weeds of concern across the catchment, declared noxious 

weeds and non declared weeds. 

This document aims to specifically address Biodiversity Targets of the Murray Catchment Action 

Plan (CAP) 2 : 

“CT/B2 – By 2016 there is a reduction in the status of ecologically significant invasive plants 

and animals” 

Other Relevant Murray Catchment Management Targets are: 

“MT/B2.1 By 2007 a Murray Catchment Regional Weed Strategy will be completed.” 

“MT/B2.1.1 From 2008, eradication of State and Regionally Prohibited Weeds from High 

Conservation Value (HCV) areas will occur within five years of detection.” 

1 

Martin P (2003) Killing us softly - Australia’s green stalkers, A call to action on invasive plants, and a way forward, CRC for 

Australian Weed Management. 

2 

The CAP provides clear direction for future natural resource management through provision of incentives, education, 

planning and partnership development. Further information can be found at www.murray.cma.nsw.gov.au.

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1.2 Strategy development 

The framework detailed below builds on existing initiatives of local government to identify and 

objectively rank weeds across the catchment. It is also consistent with National Post-Border 

Weed Risk Management Protocol 1 . This is essential to enhance rapid response to emerging weed 

problems, coordination and efficiency between local government and all other stakeholders. During 

the consultation process participants also determined current weed problems; agreed on a system 

to rank weeds into priority groups; and determined aims, objectives and actions for the Strategy. 

Flowchart of Strategy development 

Murray Catchment Regional Weed Strategy Steering Committee formed 

↓ 

Consultation with 7 Murray CMA Landholder Community Advisory Groups (LCAGs) 

↓ 

8 × Consultation workshops run across the catchment with 

community and stakeholders 

↓ ↓ 

Compilation of draft Strategy 

↓ ↓ 

Review of draft by steering committee 

↓ ↓ 

Draft available to Murray CMA Board 

↓ ↓ 

Final document released 

1.3 Context 

The Strategy recognises the social, economic and environmental diversity of the region and 

endeavours to meet the needs of all stakeholders and the community. It considers weed species that 

affect the natural environment, agricultural production and social and cultural values. It complements 

other local, regional and state management plans, legislation and programs and is intended to be 

used by individuals, groups and agencies involved in weed management in the Murray Catchment. 

The Local Control Authority (LCA) for land within a Local Government Area (LGA) is the council of 

the LGA or, if noxious weed control functions for that area have been conferred on a county council 

under any other Act, the county council having those functions. While there are 14 LGAs in the 

Murray Catchment, there are only 11 LCAs. 

Thirteen CMAs have been established across the State by the New South Wales Government. The 

CMAs are not the sole or lead agency with responsibilities of weed management in NSW. However 

CMAs do have specific roles in regard to: 

• ensuring that regional communities have a significant say in how natural 

resources are managed in their catchments 

• encouraging and facilitating partnerships between all levels of government 

and the community undertaking or facilitating on-ground natural resource 

management works for the purposes of catchment activities that are 

consistent with the objectives of the funding sources and the Murray CAP. 

1 

Anon (2006), HB 294-2006 National Post-Border Weed Risk Management Protocol (CRC for Australian Weed Management 

and Standards Australia)


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Increasingly land managers are faced with the need to consider a range of environmental issues in 

their day-to-day operations. Many of the issues depend on the cooperation and good management 

of others. This Strategy describes the role that individuals, community groups, land and water 

management agencies and authorities have in managing weeds. It provides some actions to 

enhance effective weed management. This document assists in the decision-making process of 

where to effectively invest money on weed control. By implementing this Strategy, stakeholders will 

reduce the impact and cost of weeds to agricultural production and the environment. 

1.4 Organisations responsible for implementation 

This Strategy complements other local, regional and state management plans, legislation and 

programs and is intended to be used by individuals, groups and agencies involved in weed 

management in the Murray Catchment. 

Organisation 

Local Control 

Authority 

Rural Lands 

Protection Boards 

Australian Rail 

Track Corporation 

Roads and Traffic 

Authority 

Department of 

Environment and 

Climate Change 

Department of 

Lands 

Forests NSW 

Strategy implementation role 

• Manage weeds on their lands (including roads) 

• Ensure private owners and occupiers of lands control noxious weeds 

through the enforcement of the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 

• Review weed declarations 

• Educate community on weed management 

• Coordinate weed management activities with other stakeholders 

• Member of ERNWAG/WRNWAG 

• Liaise with public land managers in relation to noxious weed control 

• Manage weeds on their lands and prevent spread to adjoining areas 

through stock movement 




through movement of vehicles and machinery 




through movement of vehicles and machinery 


• Contact local government prior to commencement of road work activities 

to prevent the spread of noxious weeds 

• Participate in ERNWAG/WRNWAG 






• Provide funding to assist with weed control on Crown lands 




• Member of ERNWAG/WRNWAG

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Murray Catchment 

Management 

Authority 

Murray 

Irrigation Ltd 

Yarkuwa and 

other Australian 

indigenous groups 

Private land 

managers 

NSW Department 

of Primary 

Industries 

Eastern and 

Western Riverina 

Noxious Weeds 

Advisory Groups 

Nursery, Garden 

and Landscape 

Industry 

Goulburn-Murray 

Water on behalf 

of Murray Darling 

Basin Commission 

• Assist in the development and implementation of the Strategy by 

facilitating community and technical input 

• Support training opportunities for weed control officers and landholders 

to continuously improve their weed identification and management skills 


• Assist with the implementation of best practice management for invasive 

plants through the incentive programs 

• Assist with the preparation and distribution of information sheets on 

identifying and controlling invasive plants 

• Facilitate the development of common noxious weed control policies 

across LCAs 




• Preserve the integrity of cultural values by managing weeds 

• To control noxious weeds in accordance with the legislative requirements 

• Manage other priority weeds on their lands to prevent spread, contain or 

eradicate infestations 

• Administer distribution of State Noxious Weeds Grants 

• Technical support for local government, other organisations and land 

holders 

• Support local government in their role to manage noxious weeds in their 

jurisdiction 

• Provide extension material and education activities 

• Undertake weed management research 


• Distribute and monitor weed biological control agents 

• Carryout scientifically rigorous evaluation of invasive species 

• Contribute to state and national policy 

• Review noxious weed declarations 

• Development of common noxious weed control policies 

• Facilitate liaison between authorities involved in weed control 

• Promote awareness of noxious and environmental weeds within the 

community 

• Recommend weed policy, planning matters, declaration and control to 

member organisations 

• Develop and implement regional weed control plans and strategies 

• Adhere to the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 

• Provide alternative species to known environmental weeds 

• Weed management on foreshores


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2. Strategy Components 

2.1 The vision 

Minimise the economic, environmental and social impacts of existing and new and 

emerging weeds in the Murray Catchment through coordination, cooperation and 

commitment from weed managers and the community. 

2.2 Key aims 

Participants of the workshops determined the aims, objectives and actions of the Strategy. These 

have been placed under six key areas for implementation listed below. 

The specific objectives and actions are detailed in Section 3 – Implementing the Strategy. Weeds 

of concern in the catchment have been prioritised to guide investment of resources. This process is 

detailed in Section 2.4 - Prioritising weeds. 

1. Preventative Weed Management 

Aim: To protect biodiversity, agricultural production and amenity (community values) by 

preventing new weed infestations. 

2. Manage Existing Weeds 

Aim: To reduce the impact of existing weeds. 

3. Awareness, Education and Training 

Aim: To have a well informed, well resourced, wide network of people involved in weed 

management in the Murray Catchment. 

4. Coordination of Weed Management 

Aim: To manage catchment weed issues in a cooperative and coordinated manner. 

5. Legislation and Enforcement 

Aim: To use the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 and other relevant legislation consistently and 

effectively. 

6. Monitoring and Evaluation 

Aim: To ensure the Strategy is implemented and remains a relevant working document.

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2.3 Weed definitions 

2.3.1 

Weed 

As defined in the Australian Weed Strategy 1 : “A weed is a plant that requires some form of action to 

reduce its harmful effects on the economy, the environment, human health and amenity.” 

2.3.2 

Noxious weed 

Noxious weeds are weeds that are declared by an ‘order’ under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 

(NWA). Weeds may be declared over the entire state or in one or more LGA. Both environmental 

and production weeds may be declared under the NWA and all land managers are responsible for 

controlling noxious weeds as specified by the weed control ‘class’. 

2.3.2.1 

Weed control ‘order’ 

A weed control order is to do the following 

• Declare that the plant is a noxious weed 

• Apply a weed control class or classes to the plant and 

• Specify the land, the control measures, the control objectives and 

the term of the order (not exceeding 5 years). 

2.3.2.2 

Weed control ‘classes’ 

Class 1, State Prohibited Weeds, must be eradicated from the land and the land must be 

kept free of the plant. See Appendix 3 for catchment list. 

Class 2, Regionally Prohibited Weeds, must be eradicated from the land and the land must 

be kept free of the plant. See Appendix 3 for catchment list. 

Class 3, Regionally Controlled Weeds, must be fully and continuously suppressed and 

destroyed, and where applicable the plant may not be sold, propagated or knowingly 

distributed. 

Class 4, Locally Controlled Weeds, the growth and spread of the plant must be controlled 

according to the measures specified in a management plan published by the LCA, and 

where applicable the plant may not be sold, propagated or knowingly distributed. 

Class 5, Restricted Plants, must not be sold, purchased or scattered. 

Class 1, 2 and 5 noxious weeds are notifiable under the NWA. Land managers are required 

to inform the LCA within 3 days of becoming aware of a notifiable weed. 

Due to the number of LCAs and number of weeds declared in the catchment, a complete 

noxious weeds list hasn’t been included in the Strategy. For a complete list go to: 

www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/noxweed and choose your LCA. 

1 

Anon (2006) Australian Weed Strategy – A national strategy for weed management in Australia.


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2.3.3 Feral Native Plant Species 

Species of native vegetation that are indigenous to New South Wales but outside their natural range 

may be listed as feral species. The Murray CMA is responsible for recommending which native 

species are feral to all or parts of the Murray Catchment. Clearing of listed feral species does not 

require approval provided the clearing is made in accordance with any conditions of the listing and 

is only for that species. There are no feral species currently listed within the Murray Catchment, 

but once the listing process is completed they will be published on the Murray CMA website 

www.murray.cma.nsw.gov.au. 

2.3.4 Invasive Native Scrub (INS) 

INS is the term used to describe native plant species that have either spread rapidly within their 

natural range and invade plant communities where it has not been known to occur previously, 

or have regenerated densely following natural or artificial disturbances such as fire, flood, 

clearing or grazing, and the species is resulting in a change of structure or composition of 

a vegetation community. Listed INS species do not always behave invasively in every situation. 

Once a CMA officer has confirmed that a listed species is behaving invasively, the INS species 

can be assessed for clearing. A list of INS species in the Murray Catchment can be found at 

www.nativevegetation.nsw.gov.au. (Info sheet 9).

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2.3.5 Environmental weed 

A weed that invades native communities or ecosystems; they may or may not be declared noxious 

and do not necessarily cause any economic loss to agricultural production. 

2.3.6 Weeds on the National Environmental Alert List 

The purpose of the National Environmental Alert List is to identify those species that 

are in the early stages of establishment and have the potential to become a significant 

threat to biodiversity if they are not managed. For a complete list of alert weeds go to: 

http://www.deh.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/weeds/alert-list.html 

2.3.7 Weeds of National Significance (WoNS) 

Twenty Weeds of National Significance have been identified from a list of more than 3000 non-native 

naturalised plants in the Australian environment. WoNS were identified to minimise the effects to 

Australia’s productive capacity and natural ecosystems and to manage future threats to: primary 

industries, land management, human or animal welfare, biodiversity and conservation values. WoNS 

status will bring the following weed species under national management for the purpose of restricting 

their spread and/or eradicating them from parts of Australia. 

Table 2.1 – Weeds of National Significance 

Common Name 

Alligator weed 

Athel pine 

Bitou bush / boneseed 

Blackberry 

Bridal creeper 

Cabomba 

Chilean needle grass 

Gorse 

Hymenachne 

Lantana 

Mesquite 

Mimosa 

Parkinsonia 

Parthenium weed 

Pond apple 

Prickly acacia 

Rubber vine 

Salvinia 

Serrated tussock 

Willows (except weeping Willows, Pussy Willow 

and Sterile Pussy Willow 

Scientific Name 

Alternanthera philoxeroides 

Tamarix aphylla 

Chrysanthemoides monilifera 

Rubus fruticosus agg. 

Asparagus asparagoides 

Cabomba caroliniana 

Nassella neesiana 

Ulex europaeus 

Hymenachne amplexicaulis 

Lantana camara 

Prosopis spp. 

Mimosa pigra 

Parkinsonia aculeata 

Parthenium hysterophorus 

Annona glabra 

Acacia nilotica spp. indica 

Cryptostegia grandiflora 

Salvinia molesta 

Nassella trichotoma 

Salix spp. except S. babylonica, S. X 

calodendron and S. X reichardtiji


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2.4 Prioritising weeds 

During the consultation process stakeholders identified weeds of concern in the catchment, 

including noxious weeds, environmental weeds, WoNS and alert list weeds. The complete list of 

weeds identified is provided in Appendix 1. In order to use available resources most effectively, 

weeds were ranked using the prioritisation process (Appendix 2). The process recognises that the 

most cost effective way to manage weeds is to target resources in an orderly manner (see weed list 

categories 2.4.1). This being: 

• To prevent the establishment and spread of emerging weed problems (Category A) 

• Contain infestations with limited and moderate distribution (Category B and C) 

• Manage widespread weed problems (Category D) 

Some weeds identified at the workshops by participants were not put through the prioritisation 

process because of one or more of the following reasons: 

• Native, and not listed as a feral native species 

• Already widespread, not declared noxious and well established throughout Australia 

• Unsure of exact identification and needs further investigation 

• Identified as needing further evaluation 

• Willows are a significant environmental weed. Not all could be prioritised due to the complexity of 

the taxa. The National Willow Taskforce is undertaking a detailed weed risk assessment of willows 

to help guide legislation and management at a national level. This information will be available at 

www.weeds.org.au/WoNS/willows/ 

The Murray CMA may invest in low priority or un-prioritised weeds where they are deemed to be 

threatening the biodiversity or ecological values of a particular site. Some of the factors taken into 

account in these situations will include: 

• Demonstrated improvement of natural resource outcomes 

• Commitment to control program by landholder 

• Use of economically viable control options 

• Inclusion of a community education component where possible 

• Use of best practice control measures 

• Incorporation of adequate monitoring and evaluation 

The prioritisation process complements the aims, objectives and actions of this Strategy and 

encourages land managers to adopt a consistent approach. 

It is impractical to have one priority list of weeds across the entire catchment because of large 

variations in rainfall, topography, landuse and vegetation communities. For instance weeds of 

the Upper Catchment are not necessarily adapted to the environmental conditions of the Western 

Catchment. To create relevant lists across the catchment it has been agreed to use the pre-existing 

Local Community Advisory Group (LCAG) regions for ranking the weeds. These subregions are: 

Western; Billabong–East; Murray LWMP areas; Bullatale / Tuppal; Central; South West Slopes; and 

Upper Murray (see Figure 1).

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2.4.1 Weed list categories 

The weed list categories were created for the purposes of this Strategy – to guide general weed 

management rather than concentrating on only weeds that are declared under the NWA. The below 

categories and recommended activities are not bound by legislation but are recommended activities 

to be undertaken upon finding these weeds. Only those weeds declared noxious are bound by legal 

obligations. Noxious weeds have been identified in the priority weed listings (Section 2.4.2). 

Category A – Weeds not currently present in the Murray Catchment subregion 

Recommended responses and actions upon finding a Category A weed: 

• Quarantine the area and remove infestations/plants within 7 days (species dependant) 

• Hold a spot field day with surrounding neighbours upon identification/ finding 

• Report notifiable weeds to NSW DPI 

• Widespread publicity using mass media; become proactive with established groups 

and increase awareness of the key features of these weeds during property inspections 

(LCAs) 

• Map and remove all infestations and monitor for re-emergence 

• For further actions see Objectives 1.1, 1.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4 in Section 3 of the 

Strategy 

Category B – Weeds present with limited distribution, several small infestations in the 

Murray Catchment subregion 

Recommended responses and actions upon finding a Category B weed: 

• Remove and or isolate infestations using best management practice 

• Utilise media (newsletters, existing networks) to raise awareness 

• Hold field days to focus on distribution of the weed 

• Link in with HCV plans as developed in conjunction with CMA 

• Become proactive with established groups. Fact sheets to be made available stating 

what needs to be done and why it is needed. Increase awareness of the weeds key 

features during property inspections (LCAs) 

• Map and control all infestations and monitor for re-emergence 

• For further actions see Objectives 1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 4.1, 5.1 and 

6.1 in Section 3 of this Strategy 

Category C – Weeds present with moderate distribution in the Murray Catchment subregion, 

numerous to large partially dispersed infestation 

Recommended responses and actions upon finding a Category C weed: 

• Infestations managed as per declaration status and LCA Class 4 plan 

• Link in with HCV plans as developed in conjunction with CMA 

• Hygiene practices promoted to prevent further spread of the weed 

• Utilise local media and conduct field days during the main growing season 

• Map and manage all infestations (as per declaration status) and monitor to prevent 

spread 

• For further actions see Objectives 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 4.1, 5.1 and 6.1 in 

Section 3 of this Strategy


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Category D – Weeds are widespread throughout the subregion 

Recommended responses and actions upon finding a Category D weed: 

• Incorporate into existing extension material and field days 

• Encourage containment of infestations 

• Promote hygiene practices to prevent further spread of the weed 

• Manage infestations as per declaration status and LCA class 4 plan 

• For further actions see Objectives 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 4.1, 5.1 and 6.1 in 

Section 3 of this Strategy

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2.4.2 Prioritised Weed Lists for Murray CMA subregions 

The weed lists (Tables 2.1 – 2.7) are provided to benchmark the level of weed infestations and list 

priority weeds for the catchment. Resources should be allocated so that the impact and infestation 

level of these species stabilises or decreases. Refer to section 2.4.1 for recommended activities for 

each category and to figure 1 to work out which subregion you are in. 

Table 2.2 – Priority weeds – Western LCAG area – Murray Catchment 

Weed 

Common name 

Scientific name 

Category A: Weeds not currently present in the Murray Catchment subregion 

All Class 1 and 2 noxious weeds (see Appendix 3 for complete list) (*) 

Gorse 


Serrated tussock Nassella trichotoma (*) 

Scotch broom 

Cytisus scoparius 

Cape tulips 

Moraea spp 

Chilean needle grass Nassella neesiana (*) 

Black willow 

Salix nigra 

Camel thorn Alhagi maurorum (*) 

Category B: Weeds present with limited distribution, several small infestations in the Murray 

Catchment subregion 

St Johns Wort Hypericum perforatum (*) 

Sagittaria Sagittaria platyphylla (*) 

Blackberry Rubus fruticosus agg. (*) 

Coolatai grass Hyparrhenia hirta (*) 

Prairie ground cherry Physalis viscosa & P. virginiana (*) 

Bridal creeper Asparagus asparagoides (*) 

Hardhead thistle (#) Acroptilon repens (*) 

Rhus tree (#) Toxicodendron succedaneum (*) 

Category C: Weeds present with moderate distribution in the Murray Catchment subregion, 

numerous to large partially dispersed infestations 

Pampas grass 

Cortaderia spp 

Star thistle Centaurea calcitrapa (*) 

Tree of Heaven 

Ailanthus altissima 

Hoary cress Cardaria draba (*) 

Buffalo burr 

Solanum rostratum 

Silverleaf nightshade Solanum elaeagnifolium (*) 

Johnson grass Sorghum halepense (*) 

Category D: Weeds are widespread throughout the subregion 

African boxthorn Lycium ferocissimum (*) 

Spiny burrgrass Cenchrus longispinus & C. incertus (*) 

Golden dodder Cuscuta campestris (*) 

Spiny emex 

Emex australis 

Bathurst burr, Noogoora burr Xanthium spp (*) 

Onion weed Asphodelus fistulosus (*) 

Prickly pears Opuntia spp & Cylindropuntia spp (*) 

Horehound Marrubium vulgare (*) 

Devil’s claw Proboscidea louisianica & Ibicella lutea (*) 

Khaki weed Alternanthera pungens (*) 

Willows (not yet ranked) (*) 

(#) = ranked lower than this category, but are of limited distribution. 

(*) = noxious weed in one or more of the LCAs in the LCAG area. 

Note: some weeds were not prioritised. Refer to 2.4 for reasons.


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Table 2.3 – Priority weeds – Billabong East LCAG area - Murray Catchment 

Weed 

Common name 




Gorse 


Scotch broom 



Cape tulips Moraea spp (*) 





Black willow 

Salix nigra 


Camel thorn 

Alhagi maurorum 

Scotch / Illyrian thistle Onopordum spp (*) 


Hardhead thistle Acroptilon repens (*) 




Tree of heaven Ailanthus altissima (*) 

Pampas grass 



St John’s wort Hypericum perforatum (*) 




Wild radish Raphanus raphanistrum (*) 

Hoary cress 

Cardaria draba 


St Barnaby’s thistle Centaurea solstitialis (*) 




Spiny emex Emex australis (*) 

Buffalo burr Solanum rostratum (*) 


Sweet briar 

Rosa rubiginosa 





Paterson’s curse Echium spp (*) 




(#) = ranked lower than this category, but are of limited distribution 



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Table 2.4 – Priority weeds – Murray LWMP LCAG area - Murray Catchment 

Weed 

Common name 




Gorse 


Scotch broom 








Black willow 

Salix nigra 

Camel thorn Alhagi maurorum (*) 


Pampas grass 










Wild radish 

Raphanus raphanistrum 

St Barnaby’s thistle 

Centaurea solstitialis 










Hoary cress Solanum rostratum (*) 




Sweet briar 













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Table 2.5 – Priority weeds – Bullatale / Tuppal LCAG area - Murray Catchment 

Weed 

Common name 




Gorse 


Scotch broom 






Star thistle 

Centaurea calcitrapa 



Black willow 

Salix nigra 


Hardhead thistle (#) Acroptilon repens (*) 











Camel thorn 

Alhagi maurorum 


Sweet briar 




St Barnaby’s thistle 

Centaurea solstitialis 




Pampas grass 



Bathurst burr Xanthium spp (*) 



Hoary cress 

Cardaria draba 

Buffalo burr, Noogoora burr Solanum rostratum (*) 


Khaki weed 

Alternanthera pungens 






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Table 2.6 – Priority weeds – Central LCAG area - Murray Catchment 

Weed 

Common name 




Gorse Ulex europaeus (*) 


Scotch broom Cytisus scoparius (*) 




Black willow Salix nigra (*) 


Nodding thistle Carduus nutans (*) 




Hemlock Conium maculatum (*) 





Privet Ligustrum sinense & Ligustrum lucidum (*) 









Tree of Heaven Ailanthus altissima (*) 



Pampas grass Cortaderia spp (*) 







Sweet briar Rosa rubiginosa (*) 












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Table 2.7 – Priority weeds – South West Slopes LCAG area - Murray Catchment 

Weed 

Common name 




Ragwort 

Senecio jacobaea 




Alligator weed Alternanthera philoxeroides (*) 















Star thistle 

Centaurea calcitrapa 

Hardhead thistle 

Acroptilon repens 


Privet 

Ligustrum sinense & Ligustrum lucidum 

























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Table 2.8 – Priority weeds – Upper Murray LCAG area - Murray Catchment 

Weed 

Common name 




Ragwort Senecio jacobaea (*) 








Hardhead thistle 

Acroptilon repens 
















Buffalo burr 

Solanum rostratum 





Tree of Heaven Ailanthus altissima (*) 
















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3. Implementing the Strategy 

Each aim of this Strategy is supported by a number of objectives and actions. The tables below show 

the hierarchy and include the agencies/persons who will commit resources to achieving each action. 

All actions are of equal importance and completion is recommended within the life of the Strategy. 

Stakeholders implementing this Strategy include: Local Control Authorities (LCAs), Rural Land Protection 

Boards (RLPBs), Regional Weed Advisory Committees (RWACs), Department of Environment and 

Climate Change (DECC), Department of Water and Energy (DWE), Australian Rail Track Corporation 

(ARTC), Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA), Department of Lands (DoL), Murray Catchment Management 

Authority (CMA), NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI), Murray Irrigation Ltd (MIL), Snowy 

Hydro Ltd (SHL), other private land managers. 

Preventative Weed Management 

Aim: To protect biodiversity, agricultural production and amenity (community values) by preventing 

new weed infestations. 

Objective 1.1: No new weeds naturalised in the catchment over the life of the RWS 

Actions 

Implementing Bodies 

1.1.1 Create and distribute information for all category A weeds LCAs, NSW DPI, CMA 

1.1.2 Identify and protect threatened flora and fauna (as per 

current Acts and plans) under risk from serious weed All stakeholders 

invasion 

1.1.3 Identify target areas to focus management activities for 

priority weeds 

All Stakeholders 

1.1.4 Develop a rapid response program for new incursions in the 

region 

LCAs, NSW DPI 

1.1.5 Ensure stakeholders / land managers are informed of rapid 

response program 

LCAs, CMA, NSW DPI 

1.1.6 Continual evaluation of potential invasive species to the NSW DPI, LCAs, RWACs, 

catchment 

CMA 

1.1.7 Identify and survey high risk areas where potential new 

weeds may be introduced 

LCAs, CMA, MIL 

1.1.8 Implement a targeted inspection program on private property 

and roadsides 

LCAs 

1.1.9 Form collaborative arrangements with other land managers 

to maximise surveillance activities 

LCAs 

Objective 1.2: Increased collaboration with retail industry and gardeners to limit potential weed 

introductions and spread of weeds from ornamental gardens. 

1.2.1 Provide nursery and garden industry (retailers) with current 

noxious weeds and non saleable weeds list 

LCAs 

1.2.2 Implement a targeted inspection program on and with retail 

outlets 

LCAs 

1.2.3 Develop links with the NGIA & DAGE 

RWACs, CMA 

1.2.4 Promote the planting of non-invasive species in gardens 

CMA, RWACs, LCAs, NSW 

DPI 

1.2.5 Promote the impacts of weeds through the use of media, 

RWACs, LCAs, NSW DPI, 

focusing on the threat of garden escapees and illegal 

CMA 

dumping of garden refuse

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Management of Existing Weeds 

Aim: To reduce the impact of existing weeds. 

Objective 2.1: Increase the number of coordinated programs to reduce existing weed problems. 

Actions 

2.1.1 

2.1.2 

2.1.3 

2.1.4 

Establish the current distribution of priority weeds in the 

catchment 

Develop and implement weed management plans for priority 

weeds in consultation with stakeholders 

Implement recommended activities for weed list categories 

(see section 2.4.1) 

Monitor, review and report on implementation of weed 

management programs 


RWACs, LCAs, NSW DPI 

LCAs, CMA 

All stakeholders 


2.1.5 

2.1.6 

2.1.7 

2.1.8 

2.1.9 

2.1.10 

2.1.11 

2.1.12 

2.1.13 

2.1.14 

2.1.15 

Ensure weed plans and strategies complement plans and 

strategies in adjoining regions and catchments; including 

state and national plans and strategies 

Undertake a collaborative linear reserve weed and vegetation 

management program (Public land incl) 

Develop a Weeds Information Pack and distribute to new 

landholders in the catchment 

All LCAs employ a competent Weeds Officer to enforce the 

NWA 1993 

Develop and implement a clearly defined policy on inspection 

procedures for private property and roadsides 

Encourage State of Environment reporting and Local 

environment planning process to include weed issues 

Encourage planning for weed management within all 

aspects of property planning and management agreements 

(including PVPs) 

Undertake targeted programs for priority weeds in sub 

regions of the Murray Catchment 

Support weed management research projects and biological 

control programs 

Assist landholders/ groups of, manage weeds by providing 

technical advice and support 

Undertake further evaluation of listed weeds in appendix 1 (*) 

before prioritising 

RWACs, LCAs, CMA, NSW 

DPI 

LCAs, RLPB, DoL, RTA, 

ARTC, CMA 

LCAs, CMA 

LCAs 

LCAs 

LCAs 

CMA, LCAs 



LCAs, RWACs, NSW DPI 

LCAs, RWACs


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Objective 2.2: Increase the use of hygienic practices to prevent introduction and spread of weeds. 

Actions 

2.2.1 All agencies / contractors implementing a machinery hygiene 

protocol 

2.2.2 Update industry codes of practice to reflect the requirements 

of the NWA 1993 

2.2.3 Encourage private landholders to adopt hygiene practices to 

prevent introduction and dispersal of weeds 

2.2.4 Undertake targeted inspection program on soil, gravel and fill 

distribution points 


All Stakeholders 

All relevant industry bodies 

LCAs, CMA, MIL, RWACs, 

NSW DPI 

LCAs 

Objective 2.3: Link weed management to sustainable land use 

2.3.1 

Promote the use of sustainable land use practices 

(incorporating grazing management, ground cover, pasture 

management, appropriate land use, capacity building), 

linking this in with weed management 

LCAs, CMA, MIL, RWACs, 

NSW DPI 

2.3.2 Promote the use of integrated weed management 

LCAs, NSW DPI, CMA 

2.3.3 

Link weed management with other CMA targets (such as 

HCV incentives, riparian restoration programs, etc) 

CMA, LCAs 

Stop the spread of weeds by keeping machinery clean!

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Awareness, Education and Training 

Aim: To have a well informed, well resourced, wide network of people involved in weed management 

in the Murray Catchment. 

Objective 3.1: Develop effective communication networks to disseminate information 

Actions 


3.1.1 Develop and implement a communication Strategy LCAs, RWACs, CMA 

3.1.2 Develop a database of distribution networks 

RWACs, LCAs 

3.1.3 Publish and maintain a list of weed contacts 

RWACs, LCAs 

3.1.4 

3.1.5 

3.1.6 

3.1.7 

Include weed management information on relevant web 

sites 

Utilise media outlets to raise the profile and impact of 

weeds 

Stakeholders provide regular updates to the general public 

on weed management programs 

Ensure community are provided with regular updates 

(good news stories) on the implementation of this Strategy 


NSW DPI, LCAs, CMA 



Objective 3.2: Increase the number of programs conducted that raise the awareness of the impact 

of weeds. 

3.2.1 

3.2.2 

3.2.3 

3.2.4 

3.2.5 

Develop and use existing programs such as ‘weed 

warriors’, ‘bush friendly nurseries’, ‘grow me instead’, to 

raise the profile of weed impacts 

Support state and national initiatives that raise the profile of 

weed management (‘weed buster week’) 

Provide resources and personnel to run programs 

Inform community on how they can assist and contribute to 

weed management 

Invite community leaders to key events addressing weed 

management 

LCAs, CMA, RWACs, NSW 

DPI 



DPI 


LCAs, RWACs, CMA 

Objective 3.3: Provide annual training opportunities to all stakeholders in weed management 

3.3.1 

3.3.2 

3.3.3 

Resources and training provided to maintain and increase 

weed officer skills 

Integrate weed management into other relevant NRM 

training programs 

Develop demonstration sites and run field days to educate 

land holders on best weed management practices for 

priority weeds 

LCAs, NSW DPI, CMA 

NSW DPI, CMA, LCAs 

LCAs, CMA, NSW DPI


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Objective 3.4: Provide educational resources for the community on weeds and their management 

Actions 


3.4.1 Produce weed management material for the media and 

relevant publications 

LCAs, NSW DPI 

3.4.2 Develop and distribute a regional weed identification guide RWACs, CMA 

3.4.3 

Produce and distribute information on priority weeds through 

the communication network 

LCAs, CMA 

3.4.4 Publicise the NSW DPI weed information hotline 


3.4.5 

Provide educational material to landholders during property 

inspections 

LCAs 

3.4.6 Publish and distribute legal obligations to all land managers LCAs 

Coordination of Weed Management 

Aim: To manage catchment weed issues in a cooperative and coordinated manner 

Objective 4.1: Build and maintain communication networks 

Actions 

4.1.1 Identify all stakeholders and appropriate contacts or 

representatives 

4.1.2 Maintain and strengthen regional weeds advisory committees 

(eg ERNWAG) with regional on ground staff from all 

stakeholders in weed management 

4.1.3 Develop joint funding submissions for priority weeds within 

and across catchments and states 

4.1.4 

CMAs to consult with each other on weed issues – re CAP 

and investment strategies 



DPI 

RWACs, LCAs 


CMA

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Legislation and Enforcement 

Aim: To use the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 and other relevant legislation consistently and effectively 

Objective 5.1: All LCAs have consistent, active weeds policy and procedure to enforce the NWA 

Actions 


5.1.1 Facilitate consistent policy on enforcement, especially 

Category A, B and C weeds 

LCAs 

5.1.2 Review declarations as required 

LCAs, NSW DPI 

5.1.3 Rapid declaration of new weeds when necessary/ 

appropriate 

LCAs, NSW DPI 

Monitoring and Evaluation 

Aim: To ensure the Murray Catchment RWS is implemented and remains a relevant working 

document 

Objective 6.1: All stakeholders committed to implementing this Strategy 

Actions 


6.1.1 Seek funding to implement the Strategy 


All stakeholders involved, 

6.1.2 Form a ‘planning, implementation and review committee’ (to 

RWACs and CMA to 

meet annually) to monitor the progress of the RWS 

coordinate 

6.1.3 Report successes of RWS to the community 

LCAs, CMA 

6.1.4 Review Strategy and weed rankings (every 5 years) 

LCAs, RWAC, CMA, NSW 

DPI 

6.1.5 

Common reporting across agencies on implementation of 

this Strategy 

All stakeholders


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4. Other relevant information 

4.1 Links to other strategies and plans 

This Strategy is consistent with the concepts outlined in the National and State Weed Strategies but 

offers a greater degree of specific detail to the Murray Catchment. 

Table 4.1 – Other relevant management strategies and plans 

Level 

National 

State 

Regional 

Strategy / Plan 

Australian Weed Strategy 

Individual WoNS Strategies 

NSW Invasive Species Plan (draft) 

State Weed Plans for individual weeds 

Regional Weed Strategy – Lower Murray Darling Catchment 

Regional Weed Strategy - Murrumbidgee Catchment 

Murray Catchment Blueprint 

Murray Catchment Action Plan 

Regional Weed Management Plans for specific weeds 

Riverina Region Pest Management Strategy (DECC) 

Local 

Local Management Plans 

Site specific 

Council approved property weed management plans 

Property Vegetation Plans

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4.2 Relevant legislation 

A wide range of legislation needs to be considered when implementing weed management activities 

(Table 4.2). Compliance is dependant on the management activity being undertaken or particular 

weed problem. 

Table 4.2 – Legislation impacting on weed management 

Legislation/Policy 

Biological Control Act 1985 

Noxious Weeds Act 1993 

Rural Lands Protection Act 1998 

Quarantine Act 1908 

Crown Lands Act 1989 

Catchment Management Authorities Act 2003 

Native Vegetation Act 2003 

Native Vegetation Act 2003 

National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 

Pesticides Act 1999 

Protection of the Environment Operations Act 

1997 

Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 

Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation 

Act 1999 

Rural Fires Act 1997 

Local Government Act 1993 

Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 

Agency responsible for administration 

NSW DPI 

The State Council of RLPBs 

Australian Quarantine & Inspection Service 

(AQIS) within the Department of Agriculture 

Forestry and Fisheries 

Department of Lands 

Catchment Management Authorities 

Department of Environment and Climate 

Change 

Australia Government Department of the 

Environment and Heritage 

Rural Fire Service of NSW 

NSW Department of Local Government / 

Local Councils 

WorkCover Authority of NSW


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Appendices 

Appendix 1: Weeds identified by participants during consultation across the Murray catchment 

Weed Scientific name Weed Scientific name 

African lovegrass (*) Eragrostis curvula complex Montpellier broom (*) Genista monspessulana 

Alisma Alisma lanceolatum Norfolk island hibiscus Lagunaria patersonii 

Arrowhead Sagittaria montevidensis Olive trees Olea europaea ssp. africana 

Black locust Robinia pseudoacacia Onion grass Romulea rosea v. australis 

Black roly poly (N) Sclerolaena muricata Oxalis Oxalis pes-caprae 

Black wattle (N) Acacia melanoxylon Ox-eye daisy (*) Leucanthemum vulgare 

Boneseed (*) 

Chrysanthemoides monilifera 

ssp. monilifera 

Paddy melon 

Cucumis myriocarpus 

Box Elder Acer negundo Parramatta grass Sporobolus africanus 

Bracken fern (N) Pteridium esculentum Parrot’s feather Myriophyllum aquaticum 

Blowfly / quaking grass Briza maxima Paspalum Paspalum dilatum 

Bushy groundsel (N) Senecio cunninghamii Paterson’s curse Echium sp 

Caltrop Tribulus terrestris Pennisetum 

Camel melon Citrullus lanatus Peppercorn trees Schinus ariera 

Cape weed Arctotheca calendula Periwinkle-purple flower (*) Vinca major 

Carex ? Phalaris Phalaris aquatica 

Cotoneaster Cotoneaster spp Phragmites (N) Phragmites australis 

Cherry Plum Prunus cerasifera (& other sp) Pine wildlings Pinus radiata 

Cleavers Galium aparine Poplar Populus sp. 

Common heliotrope Heliotropium europaeum Purple top Verbena bonariensis 

Cootamundra wattle (N) Acacia baileyana Saffron thistle Carthamus lanatus 

Couch grass Cynodon dactylon Scotch broom (*) Cytisus scoparius 

Cumbungi (N) 

Typha orientalis & T. 

domingensis 

Skeleton weed 

Chondrilla juncea 

Date palms Phoenix sp Smart weed Polygonum hydropiper 

Desert Ash 

Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. 

angustifolia 

Sorrel 

Acetosella vulgaris 

Dirty Dora Cyperus difformis Spear/corkscrew grass (*) Stipa setacea 

Dock Rumex sp Spear thistle Cirsium vulgare 

Fiddle dock Rumex pulcher Stinking mayweed Anthemis cotula 

Flaxleaf fleabane Conyza bonariensis Stinkwort Dittrichia graveolens 

Flea bane 

Conyza sp. 

Streaked poverty bush / 

copperburr (N) 

Sclerolaena tricuspis 

Galenia (*) Galenia secunda Sydney golden wattle Acacia longifolia 

Galvanised burr (N) (*) Sclerolaena birchii Tagasaste - tree lucerne Chamaecytisus palmensis 

Gazania (*) Gazania linearis Thorn apples Datura sp 

Giant mustard/wild turnip Rapistrum rugosum Tiger pear Opuntia aurantiaca 

Giant paspalum (*) Paspalum quadrifarium Variegated thistle Silybum marianum 

Goathead burr (N) Sclerolaena bicornis Veldt grass Ehrharta longiflora 

Grey Raspwort (N) Haloragis glauca Vulpia - silver grass Vulpia spp. 

Hawthorn Craetageus monogyna Ward’s weed (*) Carrichtera annua 

Honey locust Gleditsia triacanthos Water plantain Alisma plantago-aquatica 

Narrow-leaf Hopbush (N) Dodonaea viscosa White cedar Melia azedarach 

Inkweed Phytolacca octandra Wild cherry / ballart (N) Exocarpos cupressiformis 

Jo-Jo /carrot weed / bindi Soliva pterosperma Wild oats Avena fatua 

Khaki weed Alternanthera pungens Willows - twisted – all Salix sp 

Lavender Lavandula sp Wire weed Polygonum aviculare 

Lippia (*) 

Phyla canescens 

? = lack of detailed information available 

* = to be prioritised after further evaluation 

N = native species

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Appendix 2: Prioritisation process 

QUESTIONS - As adapted from Rod Randall’s ‘Which are my worst weeds?’ A simple ranking system for 

prioritising weeds. (Plant Protection Quarterly Vol. 15(3) 2000). 

Plant Name:............................................................................................ 

Family Name:.......................................................................................... 

Common Name/s:.................................................................................. 

Section A. Invasiveness of the weed. 

Question 

Yes No ? = 2 

1. Does this plant have a known history of invasiveness? 1. Yes = 6, No = 0 

2. Does this plant: 

i. grow in two or more climate types? 2. Yes = 1, No = 0 

ii. grow in two or more soil types? 

iii. grow in low nutrient soils? 

iv. survive significant mutilation or damage (grazing, slashing etc)? 

v. tolerate drought? 

3. Reproductive modes 

i. vegetative (suckers, rhizomes, stolons, layering, plantlets) 3. Yes = 2, No = 0 

ii. seed 

iii. geophytes (bulbs, corms, bulbils) 

4. Is this plant a prolific producer of propagules? (fruits, seeds, bulbs, 

corms, vegetative fragments etc.) ie. 1000+ propagules per square metre. 

Plants that have been cultivated or shredded can also produce many 

thousands of viable fragments. 

4. Yes = 6, No = 0 

5. Does the plant utilise any of the following modes of dispersal? 

i. seed or fruit is sticky or has hooks, spines, burrs (hitchhikers) 5. Yes = 1, No = 0 

ii. fruit or seed is consumed and seed survives passage (birds, mammals) 

iii. propagules have wings, parachutes, silks, fluff (wind dispersal aids) 

iv. as a contaminant of produce (gravel, seed, hay) 

v. is moved via soil or mulch (road grading, landscaping, soil in pot plants) 

vi. fruit or seed is easily transported by water, runoff etc. 

6. Do propagules display any dormancy characteristics? Eg: staggered 

germination, long periods of dormancy (two or more years), or a 

disturbance such as cultivation, overgrazing, fire or clearing is needed 

before large scale germinations occur. 

Section worth a maximum of 35 points 

6. Yes = 6, No = 0 

Section A Score


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Section B. Impacts of the weed. 

Question Yes No ? = 2 

1. Does this plant reduce or prevent the establishment, regeneration or 

development of desired native species? (including fauna as well as flora) 

1. Yes = 6, No = 0 

2. Does this plant affect the quality of products or services by: 

i. contamination of products (may render a product unsaleable) 2. Yes = 1, No = 0 

ii. yield loss (ie. Displacing normal food sources, increased competition) 

iii. loss of tourism value (in commercial operations) 

3. Does this plant smother or climb over desirable vegetation or does it 

develop into dense thickets, monocultures or very dense stands or swards? 

3. Yes = 6, No = 0 

4. Does the plant restrict/modify the normal physical movements or 

behaviour of people or animals, access of vehicles or movement of water? 

4. Yes = 6, No = 0 

5. Is this plant: 

i. a harbour to pests and /or diseases (that have an impact on other valued 5. Yes = 1, No = 0 

species) 

ii. toxic (to consume / produces residues that affect plant establishment ie. allelopathy) 

iii. unpalatable to stock 

iv. a cause of dermatitis, asthma, hay fever (effects can be remote to the plant) 

v. offensive to stock and /or people (can be prickles, exudates, smell) 

6. What negative environmental effects on ecological systems does this plant have? 

i. increases soil erosion (loss of topsoil, gully erosion) 6. Yes = 1, No = 0 

ii. alters fire regimes (increased, decreased, more intense) 

iii. replaces desirable fauna habitat and /or food sources 

Section worth a maximum of 29 points 

Section B Score

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Section C. Will that weed spread further? Its potential distribution. 

LCA: 

In determining the potential spread of a plant one should consider its current 

distribution and how the plant is behaving. The combination of these factors could 

then be used to determine a score for the plant’s potential to spread. 

Weed name:……………………….………………………. 

1. 

Compare these diagrams with the weeds current distribution. Distribution of weed 

within the region of interest. 

If weed is not present (tick box) 42 points go to Section D. 

Diagram best representing the current distribution of the weed (0-18 points): 

i. a single infestation (18 Points) 

ii. several small infestations (15 points) 

iii. numerous infestations (12 points) 

iv. a large partially dispersed 

infestation (9 points) 

v. numerous large dispersed 

infestations (6 points) 

vi. the majority of region infested with 

some small areas clean (3 points) 

2. Activity factor: 

i. Weed present for 10+ years and distribution has been static (3 points) 

ii. Weed present for 10+ years and slowly expanding in distribution (6 points) 

iii. Weed present for 10+ years and distribution is decreasing (9 points) 

iv. Weed newly identified as an undesirable invasive species (within last 5-10 years) and slowly 

expanding in distribution (12 points) 

v. Weed newly identified as an undesirable invasive species (within last 5-10 years) and rapidly 

expanding in distribution (15 points) 

vi. Known invasive species has just been found within last 5 years, no chance to spread, dealt with 

immediately (18 points) 

Activity factor best describing the current situation of the weed (0-18 points) 

1. Diagram best representing ‘current 

distribution’ 0 - 18 points 

2. ‘Activity factor’ 0 - 18 points 

Section C Score 

Section worth a maximum of 42 points


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Section D. Have you got a ‘priority’ weed? 

This flowchart is used to identify those weeds that with early intervention could be eradicated or at 

least prevented from spreading further. Plants determined as ‘priority’ weeds by this process have 

a 10% loading added to the final ranking score, and will be highlighted within the ranking structure 

as species where immediate action will produce positive benefits. 

It is quite possible that a ‘priority’ weed status may be conferred on a species that ranks quite low 

in the final overall results. This does not imply that any effort on these low ranked weeds is not 

worthwhile; any time a weed can be prevented from establishing or spreading significantly is time 

well spent. 

Determine if this species is a ‘priority’ weed… Yes or No 

WEED 

Is an acceptable control method 

available that can eradicate or contain 

the species? (Consult with appropriate 

sources for control information) 

Yes 

Is the species currently absent from the 

region of interest and has the potential 

to invade with serious impact? 

No 

Yes 

Evaluate the relative risks of controlling or 

not controlling the species. Do these risks 

warrant continuing to evaluate this species 

for specific control methods? 

No 

Yes 

No 

Do species have a limited distribution 

within the region of interest and / or have 

potential to significantly increase its 

distribution? Refer to Section C1. 

Yes (12-21 points) 

No 

(3-9 points) 

Most weeds 

Can a control program ACHIEVE one of the following 

objectives? 

Eradication from region? 

Containment within part of the region? 

Prevent invasion into another region? 

Yes 

If co-ordination between affected landowners is required can it be 

achieved within five years? and / or if the program will require 

significant resources can these be made available in time? 

No 

No 

Yes 

‘Priority’ 

weed 

Immediate action will 

yield positive results 

Is this species a 'Priority' weed? Yes No

Blue Devil 

Native Herb 

TOTAL SCORE 

Add the scores from Sections A, B and C. 

Sum Score: 

Is this species a ‘Priority’ weed (Section D)? Yes No 

If this species is a ‘priority’ weed then multiply the Sum Score by 1.1 (add 10%) 

to derive the Final Score and place a ‘T’ in front of that score. 

Final Score


Boneseed 

WoNS 

Appendix 3 Class 1 and 2 noxious weeds of the Murray Catchment 

(as per Order 20) 

Common Name Scientific name Class 

Alligator weed Alternanthera philoxeroides 2 

Anchored water hyacinth Eichhornia azurea 1 

Black knapweed Centaurea nigra 1 

Broomrapes 

Orobanche species except the native O. cernua 

variety australiana and O. minor 

Chinese violet Asystasia gangetica subspecies micrantha 1 

East Indian hygrophila Hygrophila polysperma 1 

Eurasian water milfoil Myriophyllum spicatum 1 

Gorse Ulex europaeus # 2 

Hawkweed Hieracium species 1 

Horsetail Equisetum species 1 

Hymenachne Hymenachne amplexicaulis 1 

Karoo thorn Acacia karroo 1 

Kochia Bassia scoparia / Kochia scoparia 1 

Lagarosiphon Lagarosiphon major 1 

Mesquite Prosopis species * 2 

Mexican feather grass Nassella tenuissima Stipa tenuissima 1 

Miconia Miconia species 1 

Mimosa Mimosa pigra 1 

Parkinsonia Parkinsonia aculeata * 2 

Parthenium weed Parthenium hysterophorus 1 

Pond apple Annona glabra 1 

Prickly acacia Acacia nilotica 1 

Rubbervine Cryptostegia grandiflora 1 

Salvinia Salvinia molesta 2 

Senegal tea plant Gymnocoronis spilanthoides 1 

Siam weed Chromolaena odorata 1 

Spotted knapweed Centaurea maculosa 1 

Water caltrop Trapa species 1 

Water hyacinth Eichhornia crassipes 2 

Water lettuce Pistia stratiotes 1 

Water soldier Stratiotes aloides 1 

Witchweed 

Striga species excl native species & Striga 

parviflora 

1 

Yellow burrhead Limnocharis flava 1 

1 

# declared in Albury City, Corowa, Greater Hume and Tumbarumba Shire Councils. 

* not declared in Albury City, Corowa, Greater Hume and Tumbarumba Shire Councils

... not what we don’t want

REGIONAL WEED STRATEGY MURRAY CATCHMENT - Ernwag ...

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